Between 2 February and 1 March 2026, we asked the community to provide feedback about what is important about the Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law 2021 (Local Law) and Footpath Trading Policy (FTP), and to identify emerging issues.

1,321 people had their say on the Local Law and FTP review. Feedback was gathered through an online survey (428 responses), a hard copy survey printed in the February/ March Let’s Talk Bayside magazine (457 responses), at 5 face to face pop-up feedback events (430 responses), at Council advisory and representative committee meetings (4 meetings), and through written submissions (6 responses).

Overall, community feedback indicated a strong interest in maintaining neighbourhood amenity, safety and accessibility. Participants generally supported measures that improve the management of construction activity, waste and public spaces while ensuring that activity centres remain vibrant and accessible for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Key themes included:

• Construction site management

Construction impacts were one of the most frequently raised concerns. Residents highlighted issues including damage to roads and footpaths, construction debris left on streets, traffic congestion caused by construction vehicles and noise impacts associated with building works.

Participants supported stronger provisions and enforcement mechanisms to ensure construction sites are appropriately managed, including clearer requirements relating to waste management, site fencing, vehicle parking and protection of public infrastructure.

• Hard rubbish and waste management

Hard rubbish management was widely discussed across consultation activities. Residents reported concerns about illegal dumping and additional waste being added to hard rubbish piles.

At the same time, there was community interest in education relating to hard rubbish reuse and recycling, reflecting an increasing focus on sustainability and waste reduction initiatives.

• Footpath amenity and accessibility

Footpath trading and the use of public space generated significant feedback. While many respondents acknowledged that outdoor dining contributes to the vibrancy of activity centres, concerns were raised about maintaining safe and accessible pedestrian pathways.

Key issues included footpath congestion from tables, chairs and signage, accessibility challenges for wheelchair users and parents with prams, and the need to ensure sufficient pedestrian clearance on busy shopping streets.

• Parking and traffic management

Parking and traffic management were commonly raised concerns. Participants highlighted issues including long-term parking of trailers, caravans and boats on residential streets, limited parking availability in activity centres and congestion caused by construction vehicles.

Residents also raised concerns regarding road safety and the need for improved traffic management and enforcement in both residential areas and commercial precincts.

• Animal management

There was support across the community for reviewing limits on the number of animals permitted on residential properties, particularly in higher-density housing environments.

• Streetscape maintenance and cleanliness

Participants raised concerns regarding the condition and cleanliness of public spaces. Feedback highlighted issues such as litter, broken glass, overflowing bins and the maintenance of footpaths and streetscapes.

Vegetation management, including overhanging trees and maintenance of nature strips, was also raised as an area where improvements could enhance neighbourhood amenity.

• Business and Activity Centre considerations

Submissions from traders and business representatives highlighted the importance of footpath trading in supporting vibrant shopping precincts and local economic activity.

Stakeholders emphasised the need for fair and transparent permit requirements and fee structures, as well as clear rules that balance business activity with pedestrian safety and accessibility.

More information

Read the full community engagement summary report.

Next steps

Feedback gathered during the first stage of community engagement is informing the draft amendments to the Local Law and Footpath Trading Policy.

The drafted amendments will be presented to Council at the 19 May 2026 meeting. When the drafts are endorsed, we will open the stage 2 consultation for further community feedback.

Council meeting 6.30pm, Tuesday 19 May 2026

• Read the agenda (available from 12 May, 2026)
• Ask a question
• Request to be heard
• Watch the meeting